This blog is all about what is happening in Camiguin Island. You can read news, events and other updates in Camiguin province.

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Mahinog, Camiguin LGU Council Approves New Raffle Ordinance

By: Homer R. Jajalla

Camiguin News Online – The Sangguniang Bayan (SB), here, recently approved an ordinance that would regulate the operation of “raffles” in the municipality.

Under the ordinance authored by SB Kagawad Rey Lawrence K. Tan, a raffle may be conducted only by a charitable and public welfare organization.

Thus, the ordinance would now restrict private individuals from holding a raffle in the municipality.

Tan said the ordinance resulted after a bungled raffle in the municipality,which was conducted by a private person, victimized a number of people who purchased raffle tickets, but had no winners.

“A raffle regulation was needed to safeguard the people against the scam,” Tan stressed.

Meanwhile, Republic Act 7160 otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991 gives the city and municipal mayors authority to regulate the holding of activities for charitable and welfare purposes within their respective jurisdiction.

Such activities may be in the form of benefit shows or dances, bingo socials for charity, raffle draws and similar activities.

The new ordinance makes it unlawful to conduct or operate a raffle in the municipality unless said raffle has been covered by a permit issued by the Municipal Mayor.

The ordinance further provides that raffle permits shall be issued only to organizations that operate without profit to their members.

The ordinance imposes a fine from a minimum of Php500 to a maximum of Php1,500 or imprisonment of not more than 20 days or both. (MIO/PIA-10)